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Delivering an after dinner speech can be a fun experience if you tackle it from an introspective angle. Start by considering your audience and what interests them. It is important to pick a topic that will resonate and be fun for you to deliver and for them to hear. Next, consider your own personal likes and dislikes. What interests you? What would you like to hear about? If you are passionate about the topic, your audience will be captivated too.

Personal Experience

Your goal is to provide a speech that entertains and inspires your audience. Since delivering a speech can be an intimidating task, try selecting a topic that describes a personal experience. You are likely to be enthusiastic and heartfelt if you recall a story that taught you a lesson and will be relatable to your audience. For example, why did you choose to go to college? Chances are someone helped you along the way, and it made a difference in your decision-making process. Since your audience has traveled the same road, they are likely to connect to the journey you describe. Mix this with a bit of humor, and your audience will be entertained as well.

Historical Events

For a light-hearted approach to a speech topic, consider something that provides historical insight. Research information about the college or a distinguished alum that would be of interest to your class. For example, is there an old story about mascot stealing or a building on campus that may be haunted? Scour the archives and dig up something from the past that provides a history lesson. A series of historical anecdotes could simultaneously be funny and informative. End by asking how someone in the future might speak about current times. Building an interactive component is a great way to captivate your audience.

Current Events

Current events are a great way to connect with your audience. They serve as a common experience that can be funny, touching and informative. Check out the campus news headlines and search for a story that has impact. Cross-check the story with social media sites to put your finger on the pulse of how people are reacting. When you find the perfect story, dissect it and describe how it is relevant to you and your audience. If appropriate, show how it calls your audience to action. For example speaking about banning plastic water bottles on campus could be presented in a humorous way but compel your classmates to think more environmentally.

Humor

A light-hearted approach to a speech entertains the audience and eases the pressure on the speaker. Try selecting an informative topic and adding humor to it. For example, use a joke to open your speech. Make sure you are comfortable when delivering it and that you add nonverbal communication to signal the audience to laugh. For example, wink or make a funny face after telling the joke. You can also add humor by presenting a topic from an unexpected perspective. For example, tell the audience what you are like to live with from your roommate’s perspective. One word of caution, humor done poorly can backfire. It is important that the joke you tell or the perspective you take will not offend your audience. Don’t be afraid to ask for an objective opinion from someone in your class.

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About the Author

Dr. Kelly S. Meier is a professor and college administrator for a large public institution in Minnesota. She received her undergraduate degree from Western Illinois University and her master's degree and doctorate from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has published more than 15 books on education, group development and diversity.